bat1 tou3 bat1 faai3不吐不快
Jyutpingbat1 tou3 bat1 faai3
Yalebāt tou bāt faai
Definition
To feel an urgent need to speak one's mind; to feel uneasy until one gets something off one's chest.
colloquialemotioncommunication
How it's used
Use this idiom when you feel an overwhelming urge to speak your mind because keeping silent is causing you emotional discomfort. It implies that the act of speaking is a necessary release of pent up frustration or secrets. It is often used as a polite disclaimer before saying something potentially critical or controversial.
Examples
This matter has been bothering me for a long time, I really have to get it off my chest.
Related words
Common phrases
really have to get it off my chest
Common mistake
Learners sometimes mistake this for a literal description of physical nausea, but it is strictly metaphorical and refers to emotional expression. Do not use it to describe actual vomiting or physical illness.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
